FORMER Liverpool star Xabi Alonso has given an insight into life alongside Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho and Manchester United hero Cristiano Ronaldo.

Alonso worked with the duo during his time at Real Madrid, with all three major personalities helping to end Barcelona's La Liga dominance in 2012.

The now-Bayern Munich midfielder takes on the Catalan club the first-leg of their Champions League semi-final tonight, and Alonso had his say on a number of issues regarding his former comrades in the build-up to kick-off.

For me, Cristiano is the best

Xabi Alonso

Discussing Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, the 33-year-old said: "They are both amazing players. You can see from the goals they score day in, day out. But for me, Cristiano is the best.

Taking a question on the differences between Bayern boss Pep Guardiola and Mourinho, Alonso added: "They have very different personalities. It's very interesting and a privilege to have worked alongside both coaches and understand how they both work first hand."

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Xabi Alonso's Bayern Munich side take on Barcelona in the Champions League tonight